
Driving the wild Tälligrattunnel
Switzerland, europe
N/A
2.352 m
hard
Year-round
# Tälligrattunnel: A Hidden Alpine Shortcut
Tucked away in Switzerland's Valais canton, the Tälligrattunnel is one of those roads that makes you feel like you've discovered something truly special. The approach is pure backcountry charm—a narrow, gravelly climb that demands respect and rewards you with serious alpine vibes.
Here's the thing: this road is seriously seasonal. You're looking at a pretty tight window from July through September if the weather gods are smiling. October to June? Forget about it—the mountains close the door hard during those months. The narrow, steep gravel approach isn't for the faint of heart, but the payoff is incredible.
The tunnel itself is the real star of the show. Built back in the 1980s, this 1-kilometer passage burrows straight through the Tälligrat mountain, saving you a ton of switchbacks. Originally engineered to redirect water from the Märjelensee down into the valley, it's now a thrilling shortcut for those adventurous enough to tackle the approach.
The numbers? The northern portal sits at 2,352 meters elevation, with the southern exit just a few meters lower at 2,347 meters. You're solidly in the Swiss Alps here, surrounded by some of the continent's most dramatic scenery.
This is the kind of road that locals know and visitors dream about—raw, real, and absolutely worth the gravel dust.
Where is it?
Driving the wild Tälligrattunnel is located in Switzerland (europe). Coordinates: 46.7665, 8.5737
Road Details
- Country
- Switzerland
- Continent
- europe
- Max Elevation
- 2.352 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 46.7665, 8.5737
Related Roads in europe
hardWhere is Col de Pernante?
🇮🇹 Italy
Okay adventurers, let's talk about Col de Pernante, a seriously cool spot high in the Maritime Alps. This isn't just any mountain pass; it's straddled right on the border between France and Italy! Think stunning Alpine vistas mixed with a dose of European military history – a total win-win. **The Deets:** You'll find it nestled on the ridgeline connecting the Alpes-Maritimes in France with the Province of Cuneo in Italy. The journey starts at the iconic Col de Tende, famous for its 46 hairpin turns (yes, you read that right!). From there, it’s a 600-meter jaunt up a high-altitude military road, originally built to link those old-school defensive fortifications. **Road Conditions:** Forget smooth pavement, this is an unpaved adventure! The gravel surface is usually in decent shape, popular with off-roaders and hikers. But remember, weather in the Alps can change in a heartbeat, turning that gravel slick after a storm. A standard 4x4 is your best bet, but stay alert! **The Summit:** At the top, you'll find the trailhead to Fort Pernante. Built way back in 1883, this fort was part of Italy’s border defense system. It was disarmed during WWI, but the ruins are still there, giving you a peek into the past. And the views? 360 degrees of pure, rugged beauty overlooking both French and Italian peaks. **The Challenge:** That 600-meter stretch to the pass is doable for experienced drivers, but the real challenge lies in getting to Col de Tende and then up to the fort. This road is remote! Make sure you're prepped with enough fuel and your vehicle is in top condition. Plus, watch that descent from the fort – it's steep and gravelly, so use low gear. This drive is a unique mix of simple off-roading and historical exploration, perfect for anyone keen on the "Ligne Maginot" or the Italian "Vallo Alpino" fortifications.
easyWhere is Col de l’Espaul?
🇫🇷 France
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through the Alpes-Maritimes in France, headed for a hidden gem called Col de l’Espaul. This mountain pass sits way up high at 1,752 meters (that's 5,748 feet!), offering killer views in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. You'll take Route de la Colle, snaking up through the Mercantour Massif. Be warned, those ramps can hit a 10% gradient, so hold on tight! The road *is* paved (thankfully!), but let's just say it's seen better days – blame it on that golf course they built up there. Starting in Péone on Rue Saint-Jean, it's a short but sweet 2.9 kilometers (or 1.8 miles) to the top. The road ends right at the summit where there's a big parking lot, perfect for soaking in the views of the Mercantour National Park. Trust me, the scenery makes any bumps along the way totally worth it!
hardCol de la Chambre: this road is not for timid drivers
🇫🇷 France
# Col de la Chambre Tucked away in the Savoie department of southeastern France, Col de la Chambre sits at a seriously impressive 2,787m (9,143ft) above sea level. This is one of those Alpine passes that'll make your jaw drop. Here's the thing—this isn't your typical mountain road. Starting from Val Thorens, the roughly 4km (2.5-mile) route is completely unpaved and basically follows old chairlift service roads meant for serious 4x4 vehicles only. You'll encounter some gnarly sections with grades hitting 25%, so this is definitely not a leisurely summer cruise. The pass is only accessible during the warmer months, so plan accordingly. What makes it even more thrilling? Head southeast and you'll find Mont de Péclet (2,879m/9,445ft), another Alpine giant looming nearby. The road to get there winds along more unpaved ski-lift service tracks, climbing toward the cable car station. It's genuinely one of France's highest accessible roads—the kind of place where the views are absolutely unreal and your vehicle gets put to the test. This is pure Alpine adventure territory. High elevation, extreme terrain, and some serious driving chops required.
extremeWhere is Mont Malamot?
🇫🇷 France
Okay, picture this: Mont Malamot, a killer peak way up in the French Alps (Savoie department, to be exact) hitting almost 9,500 feet. You'll find it in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of southeastern France. What's up there? Fort Malamot, an old military fortress built way back in 1889 by the Italians, big enough for 200 troops! They even beefed it up later as part of the Alpine Wall. The road? Forget smooth tarmac. It's a rugged, unpaved military road called Strada militare Bivio Varisello-Giaset-Malamot. You can't even drive it anymore - there's a barrier a few kilometers in. Beyond that, it's still holding up pretty well, at least in some spots. Stone walls and drainage are still there. But be warned: the middle section is a mess, basically wrecked by weather. Cyclists, you’re gonna have a tough time! It's crazy narrow, super steep (we’re talking over 20% gradients!), and covered in rocks. So, how long is this epic climb? From the D1006 paved road, it's about 6.7 miles to the top. That's over 3,300 feet of elevation gain, averaging out to a 9.33% grade. Killer! Heads up: being in the northern Cottian Alps, this road is a no-go from September to June. It's one of the highest roads in France, so expect snow and ice!